Removably attachable top frame for eyewear

ABSTRACT

An eyeglass system includes interchangeable anterior aesthetics. The system includes a base frame, including a front face with a left lens orbital carrying a left lens and a right lens orbital carrying a right lens, and left and right earstems attached to the front frame. A decorative top frame includes a left annular mask with an unobstructed left opening and a right annular mask with an unobstructed right opening, configured to cover the left and right orbitals, respectively, while exposing the left and right lenses through the left and right openings. The top frame is releasably connectable to the base frame. The system may include a plurality of visually distinct top frames, each interchangeably removably connectable to a common base frame.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.18/125,650, filed on Mar. 23, 2023, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 17/858,908, filed on Jul. 6, 2022, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/580,483, filed onJan. 20, 2022, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,409,135, which claims the benefitunder 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63/272,397, filed on Oct. 27, 2021, and entitled, “EYEGLASS WITHINTERCHANGEABLE DECORATIVE TOP,” and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 63/289,575, filed on Dec. 14, 2021, and entitled, “EYEGLASS WITHREMOVABLY ATTACHABLE TOP,” the entire contents of all of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of thisspecification for all that they disclose.

BACKGROUND

The present inventions relate generally to manufacturing systems andeyeglasses configured for removably receiving one or more components.

The eyewear industry has developed countless eyeglass designs over time.Some of these designs provide not only optical performance, butadditional fashion or functionality. Fashion trends in eyewear havedrifted in recent years from leaner, wiry versions to those that arelarger, wider, and often more highly decorated with graphics orornamentation. Unfortunately, the price of eyeglasses, particularlyglasses carrying an ophthalmic prescription, make it impractical formany wearers to be able to enjoy multiple artistic expressions withoutsignificant redundancy and expense.

Thus, there remains a need for an eyeglass and correspondingmanufacturing system that economically enables wearers to exhibitgreater artistic expression in the appearance of their eyeglasses.

SUMMARY

The present application discloses various new mechanisms, eyewearproducts, pairing tools, manufacturing, and methods that will furtherrevolutionize the eyewear industry. For example, implementations of someof the embodiments disclosed herein enable a wearer to personallycustomize their eyeglasses with any of a variety of selected eyewearcomponents, such as ornamental designs, emblems, and logos, or textualcontent, to name a few.

Presently in the eyewear industry, a consumer may select preassembledeyeglasses having any of a variety of designs, colors, components, orother features. While this provides a pseudo-customized final product,the eyeglasses typically cannot be further manipulated or modified afterdelivery to the consumer. One exception is eyeglasses that allow theconsumer to remove and replace the lenses and/or nosepiece of theeyeglasses. Nevertheless, there is a need in the art for a modularsystem that enables the aesthetic expression of eyeglasses to beuniquely and/or repeatedly modified based on the wearer's preference.

In some embodiments, there is provided an eyeglass system withinterchangeable anterior aesthetics. The system comprises a base frame,including a front frame with left lens orbital carrying a left lens anda right lens orbital carrying a right lens, and left and right earstemsattached to the base frame and a top frame (such as a decorative topframe), including a left annular portion or mask defining or surroundingor substantially surrounding an unobstructed left opening, and a rightannular portion or mask defining or surrounding or substantiallysurrounding an unobstructed right opening, configured to cover and/or tobe positioned anterior to the left and right orbitals, respectivelywhile exposing the left and right lenses through the left and rightopenings. The top frame may be releasably connectable to the base frame.

The top frame may comprise a posterior layer and an anterior layer, andan aesthetic enhancement may be carried by and/or displayed on theanterior layer. The posterior layer may be optically transparent. Theanterior layer may have a thickness of less than or equal to about 1 mm.

The top frame may comprise a first magnet and/or a first set of magnets,configured to couple to a second, complementary magnet and/or second setof magnets carried by the base frame. The first and the second magnetsmay be neodymium magnets.

The base frame and the top frame may be curved in a horizontal and/or avertical plane. In some embodiments, the base frame and/or the top framemay comprise at least one curved surface, such as a curved surface witha base curve of less than or equal to about base 4 curve.

In some embodiments, there is provided a dual-frame eyeglass system withenhanced resistance to shear force detachment. The system includes abase frame configured to extend between a left end and a right end,across a wearer's field of view, the base frame generally conforming toan arc in a horizontal plane, and a complementary top frame configuredto tightly, snuggly, and/or securely nest over an anterior surface ofthe base frame and generally conforming to the arc in a horizontalplane. First and second magnetic connectors and/or sets of connectorsare configured to secure the top frame to the base frame. Lateraldisruption force applied to the top frame is resisted by both themagnetic connectors and lateral interference attributable to the nestedcurvature of the base frame and the top frame.

Each magnetic connector may comprise a first magnet carried by the baseframe and a second, complementary magnet carried by the top frame.

The top frame may comprise a left orbital and a right orbitalsurrounding left and right unobstructed openings. The top frame maycomprise an optically opaque anterior layer and an optically transparentposterior layer. An aesthetically modified surface may be provided onthe top frame. The aesthetically modified surface may be on the anteriorlayer. The aesthetic modification can be a difference in design ordecoration between the appearance of the top frame and the front frameof the base frame.

In some embodiments, there is provided a decorative eyeglass top frameconfigured to magnetically connect to an anterior surface of acomplementary base frame. The top frame comprises an arcuate mask havinga left orbital connected to a right orbital by a bridge, the maskconfigured to magnetically attach to the anterior side of a front faceof a base frame and visually mask non-optical parts of the base framefrom a straight-ahead viewing angle. The mask may have a substantiallyconstant radius of curvature in a horizontal plane, and a left magnetand a right magnet configured to couple with complementary left andright magnets on the base frame. The mask left and right orbitals maysurround unobstructed openings through the mask.

The mask may comprise a plurality of layers (e.g., two layers), whichmay include an optically opaque (e.g., anterior) layer and an opticallytransparent (e.g., posterior) layer. The top frame may further comprisean aesthetic anterior surface. The aesthetic anterior surface may be agraphic pattern or a color that is different from a graphic pattern or acolor of the underlying mask, an image, or a logo of the front frame ofthe base frame of the eyewear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective, exploded view of an eyeglass and top framein accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective, exploded view of the eyeglass and topframe of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of the eyeglass and top frame of FIG.1 , spaced vertically apart.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the eyeglass and top frame of FIG. 1 , andFIG. 4A is another top plan view of another embodiment of an eyeglassand top frame.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged horizontal cross-section of a lateral portion ofthe eyeglass and top frame of FIG. 1 , shown in an as mountedconfiguration.

FIG. 6 shows an array of top frames having unique aesthetic anteriorsurfaces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the present description sets forth specific details of variousembodiments, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrativeonly and should not be construed in any way as limiting. Additionally,it is contemplated that although the top frame and base frame featuresare primarily disclosed in the context of dual-lens eyewear systems,such features can be implemented in both unitary and dual-lens eyewearsystems, helmets, goggles, hats, caps, or other wearable articles ordevices. Any structure, feature, composition, method, or step that isillustrated and/or described in any embodiment in this specification canbe used by itself or with or instead of any other structure, feature,composition, method, or step that is illustrated and/or described in anyother embodiment or that is known in the art. In accordance with theordinary meaning in this field, the term “eyeglass” encompasses productswith any type of lens or lenses, including glass or plastic lenses. Nofeature illustrated and/or described in any embodiment is indispensableor essential. The relative proportions and sizes of all componentsillustrated in the accompanying drawings are intended to form part ofthe supporting disclosure of this specification but should not beconsidered limiting except to the extent that these relative proportionsand/or sizes are expressly recited in a particular claim.

Although particular embodiments may be disclosed or shown in the contextof frames (e.g., front frames or top frames) having full orbitals, suchembodiments can be used with frames having partial orbitals or rimlessframes. Furthermore, various applications of features disclosed hereinand modifications thereto, which may occur to those who are skilled inthe art in view of the present disclosure, are also encompassed by thescope of the present invention.

Some embodiments enable a wearer to selectively, reversibly modify, orpersonalize their eyeglasses to exhibit any of a variety of decorativeaesthetics and/or informational content.

In some embodiments, one or more aesthetic modifications to theeyeglasses do not affect the stability or optical quality of theeyeglasses. For example, the top frame is not only easily incorporatedinto the eyeglass but is preferably securely retained by the eyeglasswithout affecting the optical quality or fit of the eyeglass.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, the eyeglass 10 generallycomprises a base frame that comprises a front frame 12 which, in theillustrated embodiment, supports a left lens 14 and a right lens 16, anda pair of earstems 24,26. Although the illustrated examples are shown asa dual-lens system, it is to be understood that the features, structure,methods, and/or principles discussed herein are readily applicable tothe production of frames for a wide variety of eyewear including unitarylens eyeglass systems and protective goggle and helmet systems as well.In some embodiments, any part of the eyewear 10, including the frontframe 12 and/or the top frame 40, may be formed of any suitablematerial, such as a polymer or plastic material (e.g., TR90, celluloseacetate, cellulose acetate propionate, xylonite, nylon, blended nylon),a metal material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, iron, titanium,etc.), and/or a composite material (e.g., carbon fiber). Frames thatinclude polymer or plastic material may provide various advantages, suchas high malleability or deformability during assembly of the lens to theframe, low cost, low weight of the frame, and/or many varieties incolors and style, etc.

The example of eyewear shown in the figures is dual-lens eyewear, butanything shown or described in this specification can be used withappropriate adjustments in any other eyewear, such as an eyewear shieldsystem or a single-lens or monolens eyewear. The example of eyewearshown in the figures comprises lens-receiving regions with orbitals thatare closed, integral, and unitary with the rest of the front face of theeyewear. The example orbitals are closed in that each orbital fullysurrounds the inserted lens. A closed orbital can be formed of one ormore separate pieces connected together (not shown). The exampleorbitals are integral in that they are formed of a single piece ofmaterial, without requiring connectors to attach components of theorbital to each other during insertion or removal of a lens. The exampleorbitals are unitary with the rest of the front face 12 of the eyewear10 in that they are formed of a single piece of material with the restof the front face 12 of the eyewear 10, without requiring connectors toattach the orbitals to the rest of the front face 12 of the eyewear 10.Many other structures and configurations can be used instead of or inaddition to those illustrated in the examples. The orbitals 18, 20illustrated and/or described are examples. Any suitable lens-receivingregion can be used, whether or not it is an orbital with these features,or whether or not it is an orbital at all.

The lens(es) 14, 16, shield, or other optical barrier or opticallyenhancing component, used in the eyewear can be of any suitable type:plano, ophthalmic or prescription, spherical, cylindrical, toroidal,darkening or light-attenuating, UV-protecting, polarizing, molded toshape, cut from lens blanks, interference-layer coated, anti-scratch,antiglare, antireflective, antifog, and/or any other type of lenses. Insome embodiments, the lens(es), shield, or other optical barrier oroptically enhancing component is or are formed of a suitable materialsuch as plastic (e.g., polycarbonate), glass, or any other materialsuitable for a particular application or use.

The front frame 12 generally comprises a first orbital 18 and a secondorbital 20 for supporting the first lens 14 and second lens 16. Althoughthe illustrated embodiments are shown in the context of a pair oforbitals 18 and 20 which surround the respective lenses, anything inthis specification can be adjusted to apply to eyeglass systems in whichthe frame only partially surrounds the lens or lenses, or contacts onlyone edge or a portion of one edge of the lens or each lens as well. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the orbitals 18 and 20 are connected by abridge 22.

The eyeglass 10 is also provided with a pair of earstems 24 and 26generally extending rearwardly from the front frame 12 for retaining theeyeglass on the head of the wearer. In addition, an open region 28 isadapted to receive the nose of the wearer, as is understood in the art.Nose region 28 may optionally be provided with a nosepiece, eitherconnected to the lens orbitals 18 and 20, or the bridge 22, or directlyto the lens(s) depending upon the particular embodiment. In someembodiments, the nosepiece may be formed by appropriately sculpting orshaping the medial edges of the orbitals and lower edge of the bridge22.

In some embodiments, at least the orbitals 18 and 20, and the bridge 22,as well as other non-optical components of the eyeglass system, aremanufactured from a high structural integrity material such as throughan injection molding or casting process to provide high structuralstability in at least the optical support portion of the final product.The orbitals 18 and 20 can be separately formed and assembled later witha separately manufactured bridge 22, or the orbitals 18, 20, and bridge22 can be integrally formed such as by molding or casting in an integralunit.

In some embodiments, the earstems 24 and 26 are constructed in a mannerthat permits at least medial and lateral direction flexibility, toenhance the comfort for the wearer and accommodate a variety of headwidths. Flexibility of the rearwardly extending ends of earstems 24 and26 in the desired medial and lateral directions can be accomplishedeither through the use of flexible construction materials for theearstem as is known in the art, or through the use of relatively rigidearstems in combination with a spring, resilient hinge materials,compressible materials or other techniques which can be used to impartsome flexibility and even a medial bias. In some embodiments, earstems24 and 26 are connected directly or indirectly to the orbitals 18 and 20through the use of hinges. However, non-hinged flexible or inflexibleconnections may also be used as desired.

Each orbital 18, 20 may be provided with an annular seat for receivingthe lens 14, 16. The annular seat can be formed by the sidewalls of achannel extending radially outwardly into the orbital for surroundingthe edge and a portion of the front and rear surface of the lens. Insome embodiments, the seat may be formed by the posterior or anteriorsurface of an annular shelf for receiving the lens from the front orrear side of the eyeglasses.

The lenses 14, 16 may be retained in the front frame 12 in any of avariety of manners, depending upon the configuration of the orbital 18.20. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lenses 14, 16 can besufficiently flexible to be deformed and force-fit into the annularrecess without changing the optics and/or fit of the eyewear 10 in anyfunctionally significant manner.

A top frame 40 is configured to removably attach to an anterior surfaceof the front frame 12. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the topframe 40 can comprise a first top frame orbital 42 connected to a secondtop frame orbital 44 by a top frame bridge 46. The top frame 40 may beprovided with first and second lenses, filters, or other structures inthe wearer's field of view through the orbitals. However, asillustrated, the orbitals 42, 44 of the top frame 40 are open, withoutany lens or other structure within the orbitals 42, 44. In someembodiments, the top frame 40 can function solely as an opportunity tosupport aesthetic, decorative, and/or informational content to theanterior surface of the non-optical surfaces of the eyeglass 10.

In some embodiments, the omission of a lens from the top frame can allowthe focus to be on the design and fit of the part. Furthermore,decreasing the weight of the top frame 40 by lens omission is an addedfeature.

One or more or all of the dimensions and configuration of the anteriorsurface of the top frame 40 can generally match, correspond to, alignwith, and/or be substantially equal to one or a plurality of thedimensions and configuration of the front frame 12. For example, in someembodiments, the outermost perimeter and/or shape of the top frame 40can generally match, correspond to, align with, and/or be substantiallyequal to the outermost perimeter and/or shape of the front frame 12. Insome embodiments, the outermost perimeter of the top frame 40 does notextend outwardly beyond at any point the outermost perimeter of thefront frame 12. As shown, in some embodiments, one or more of thesefeatures can allow the top frame 40 to be secured to the anteriorsurface of the front frame 12 in a manner that gives the appearance of aunitary eyeglass, without the front frame 12 being visible behind thetop frame 40 when viewed from the front.

A selection of multiple top frames 40 may be provided forinterchangeable connection to any given front frame. The selection mayinclude a plurality of geometrically identical top frames 40 differingonly by aesthetic or graphic content on at least the anterior and/or theperipheral surface. Artistic content may include one or more solidcolors, geometric or random patterned colors, graphical images ordesigns, and/or written material such as logos, symbols, or printedwords. Additional detail of the top frames and aesthetic content will bediscussed below.

As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the top frame 40 is configured to bereleasably secured to the corresponding front frame 12, enabling thewearer to select from a collection of a plurality of top frames 40 basedupon aesthetic content, and easily and quickly customize the appearanceof the eyeglass 10. In some embodiments, this can give the wearer theability to repeatedly customize appearances such as to coordinate witharticles of clothing or other fashion drivers which may change from dayto day, without incurring the expense of buying redundant underlyingophthalmic or other types of eyeglasses.

Referring to FIG. 4 , at least one, and preferably two or three or fouror more connectors may be provided to releasably couple the top frame 40and the front frame 12. Each of the connectors can comprise a firstcomponent on the front frame 12 and a second component on the top frame40. In the illustrated implementation, a first connector 50 is providedat a first lateral side of the eyeglass 10 and a second connector 52 isprovided at an opposing second lateral side of the eyeglass 10. Asshown, the first and second connectors 50, 52 are respectively providedvery close to the upper and outer lateral edges of the top frame 40and/or the front frame 12. For example, as illustrated, the distancesbetween the first and second connectors 50, 52 and the respective upperand outer lateral edges of the top frame 40 and/or the front frame 12can be about the same as and/or less than or equal to: (a) about theamount of a thickness along one or more of the orbitals 18, 20, 42, 44(e.g., a minimum thickness) in a region spaced away from the connectors50, 52; and/or (b) about the amount of a thickness along one or more ofthe bridges 22, 46 (e.g., a minimum thickness). In some embodiments, asshown, there are no connectors provided or positioned between the firstand second connectors 50, 52 on the front frame 12, and/or there are noother connectors anywhere on the front frame 12 for attaching the topframe 40 to the front frame 12 besides the top lateral connectors 50,52.

Any of a variety of one or more connectors may be utilized, dependingupon the desired performance. For example, one or more mechanicalcouplings can be provided, such as complementary pins and recesses,screws and complementary threaded apertures, or deflectable lever armshaving a lateral projection for providing an interference fit with thecomplementary base or top frame, for example, may be used. In someembodiments, as illustrated, the connector system comprises a pluralityof magnetic couplings, each of which includes a first magnet attached toor carried by the front frame 12 for magnetically coupling to a second,complementary magnet attached to or carried by the top frame 40. A firstconnector 50 can include a first base frame magnet 54, paired with acomplementary first top frame magnet 56. A second connector 52 caninclude a second base frame magnet 58, paired with a complementarysecond top frame magnet 60. In some embodiments, a third or fourthconnector may also be provided, such as in the vicinity of the bridge ornose piece. In some embodiments, the connection between the front frame12 and the top frame 40 is formed only by magnetic forces, and notformed by any mechanical connectors.

In some embodiments, the orientation of the magnetic poles of each ofthe respective magnets on the front frame 12 are the same as each other,and/or the orientation of the magnetic poles of each the respectivemagnets on the top frame 40 are the same as each other and opposite fromthe orientation of the magnetic poles of the magnets on the front frame12, on all of a plurality of interchangeable top frames 40. In this way,the respective polarities of the magnets will always induce anattractive force rather than a repelling force between the front frame12 and the top frame 40, regardless of which of a plurality of topframes 40 are used.

As shown in FIGS. 3-5 , in some embodiments, a “complete” top frame 40can comprise two full, continuous, and/or uninterrupted orbitals thatare positioned anterior from and that extend around the perimeter of (oraround substantially the entire perimeter of) the lenses held in placeby the orbitals of the underlying front frame 12. As shown, in someembodiments, a complete top frame 40 can be attached to the front frame12 by only or no more than two magnetics on the front frame 12 and onlyor no more than two magnets on the top frame 40, without requiring anyadditional magnets or magnetic couplings to securely and tightly holdthe top frame 40 to the front frame 12. As illustrated, each of the twosets of magnetic couplings can be positioned only on the outer, upperlateral sides and/or edges of each orbital on each of the front frame 12and the top frame 40. Providing only two sets of magnetic couplings cancreate one or more advantages in certain embodiments, including: (a)diminishing the number of parts in manufacturing and therefore the costand weight of the product; and (b) diminishing the unaestheticappearance of more than two magnets being visible on the front frame 12when the top frame 40 is not attached, permitting a user to wear thefront frame 12 by itself without a top frame 40 at times, if desired. Asshown, in some embodiments, there are no magnets positioned below theupper portion or the upper half of the top frame 40, and/or there are nomagnets positioned in a region of the top frame 40 (when attached to thefront frame 12) that is below the bottom edge of the anterior end ofeither of the earstems 24, 26, and/or there are no magnets positioned oneither bridge 22, 46. In some embodiments, as shown, all magnets on thefront frame 12 can be positioned on the vertical anterior surface of thefront frame 12 and all magnets on the top frame 40 can be positioned onthe vertical posterior surface of the top frame 40; and/or no magnetsare provided on any horizontal surfaces and/or on any other componentsor surface of the front frame 12, the top frame 40, and/or the earstems24, 26.

In some embodiments, the top frame 40 can comprise one or more neodymiummagnets that are securely attached to or embedded in the posteriorsurface of the top frame 40. Via magnetic attractive force, the topframe can be removably attached to the front frame 12 that can alsofeature corresponding one or more neodymium magnets that are securelyattached to or embedded in the anterior surface of the front frame 12.In some embodiments, each of the respective magnets of the top frame 40and/or front frame 12 can be positioned within the top frame 40 and/orfront frame 12 at a depth that is less than or equal to about 1.2 mmand/or is greater than or equal to about 0.4 mm. In some embodiments,one or more of the magnets in the front frame 12 and/or top frame 40 areattached by providing a corresponding hole or recess within the surfaceof the front frame 12 and/or top frame 40 that is about the same as thethickness and/or cross-sectional width or diameter of the magnet. Duringmanufacturing or assembly, the magnet or magnets can be held in place bya frictional force fit within the hole and/or the magnet or magnets canbe held in place with an adhesive. As shown, the posterior outer surfaceof the magnet or magnets when positioned in the top frame 40 and/or theanterior outer surface of the magnet or magnets when positioned in thefront frame 12 can be essentially flush with the respective surfaces ofthe front frame 12 and/or the top frame 40 that is or are generallyadjacent to and/or generally surrounding the magnet or magnets. Forexample, in some embodiments, the magnet or magnets do not protrude outappreciably from the surfaces of the top frame 40 and/or the front frame12 in which the magnets are positioned or inserted.

In some embodiments, any one or more components of the eyewear system,including the front frame 12, earstems 24, 26, and/or the top frames 40can be constructed from a composition that includes a polymer, such as athermoplastic amorphous polyamide (e.g., TR90). In some embodiments, thefront frame 12 and/or the top frame 40 do not include any metalliccomponent or metallic layer, except for the discrete magnets positionedin the respective upper laterally outward corners of the front frame 40.

The top frame 40 may be formed of multiple anterior and posterior layershaving different opacities. For example, the top frame 40 can beprovided with an opaque anterior layer 70 and a generally transparentposterior layer 72. As shown, the opaque layer 70 can be substantiallythinner than the transparent posterior layer 72. In some embodiments,the top frames 40 (or any other component of the eyewear system) can bemade in a two-shot mold of a polymer material such as TR90 where theanterior layer 70 of the top frame is a colored resin of white having athickness that is generally less than or equal to about 1 mm and/or isgenerally at least about 0.3 mm. The posterior layer 72 of the top frame40 may be formed by injection of a second shot that is of a generallyclear non-optical grade resin. The various layers may be made of thesame or different types of thermoplastic material. It is desirable forthe thermoplastic material to be durable, flexible, and/or lightweight.In some embodiments, the top frames 40 are not made of acetate.

In some embodiments, the posterior layer 72 can be less than or equal toabout 2 mm in thickness and is generally at least about 1 mm inthickness. In some embodiments, the combined shot thickness can be lessthan or equal to about 2.25 mm, and at least about 1.5 mm. In someembodiments, the top frame 40 can be constructed from a laminated systemof a first posterior layer made of a thermoplastic material such as TR90posterior and a laminated opaque (e.g., white) anterior layer. In someembodiments, any layer can exhibit any of the thicknesses and tolerancesdescribed anywhere in this specification.

As illustrated in FIG. 4 , either or both of the front frame 12 and/orthe top frame 40 can be non-flat, non-planar, non-straight, and/orcurved. In some embodiments, as shown, a curved surface on either orboth of the front frame 12 and/or the top frame 40 can include one ormore discrete regions with one or more separate or distinct curvatures.In some embodiments the curvature can exist in a horizontal plane, or ina vertical plane, or in both horizontal and vertical planes. The one ormore curved surfaces can be separate from each other but of about thesame size and/or type of curvature, or the curved surfaces can beseparate from each other and of different sizes and/or types ofcurvature. For example, as illustrated, the front frame 12 can include afirst curvature along a first region (e.g., on the first orbital 18), asecond curvature along a second region (e.g., on the bridge 22), and athird curvature along a third region (e.g., on the second orbital 20).As shown, the first curvature in the first region can be essentially thesame size (e.g., less than or equal to about Base 4) and type (e.g.generally spherical or generally cylindrical) as the third curvature inthe third region, and the second curvature in the second region can bedifferent from the first and/or second curvatures. For example, asillustrated, the second curvature can have a smaller radius than thecurvature in the first and third regions but can be of the same type(e.g., generally cylindrical or generally spherical). Similarly, asillustrated, the top frame 12 can include a first curvature along afirst region (e.g., on the first orbital 42), a second curvature along asecond region (e.g., on the bridge 46), and a third curvature along athird region (e.g., on the second orbital 42). As shown, the firstcurvature in the first region can be essentially the same size (e.g.,less than or equal to about Base 4) and type (e.g., generally sphericalor generally cylindrical) as the third curvature in the third region,and the second curvature in the second region can be different from thefirst and second curvatures. For example, as illustrated, the secondcurvature of the top frame 12 can have a smaller radius than thecurvature in the first and third regions of the top frame 12 but can beof the same type (e.g., generally cylindrical or generally spherical).

As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , when the top frame 40 is removablyattached to the front frame 12, the corresponding curved surface orsurfaces of each of the front frame 12 and the top frame 40 can begenerally the same or essentially the same size and shape in the regionsthat are brought proximal to each other or made to contact with eachother. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , when the top frame 40 and thefront frame 12 are removably attached, the respective one or more curvedsurfaces can generally or substantially correspond, match, fit within,nest, and/or conform to each other in a sufficiently close manner thatessentially no space, gap, and/or distance exists between themgenerally, substantially, or entirely along their respective perimeters.For example, the anterior surface of the front frame 12 can contact orclosely fit with the posterior surface of the top frame 40 alonggenerally all or substantially all of the perimeters of one or more orall regions or the front frame 12 and the top frame 40. In someembodiments, as shown, there can be a slight protrusion on the anteriorsurface of the front frame 12 caused by the bridge 22 and acorresponding slight recess on the posterior surface of the top frame 40to closely or tightly receive the protrusion on the front frame 12. Someembodiments of any of these arrangements can provide one or moreadvantages, such as: (a) a tight, snug, and/or secure fit between thefront frame 12 and the top frame 40, especially against undesiredlateral or vertical movement; (b) a resistance to the passage of light,air, and/or debris between the front frame 12 and the top frame 40;and/or (c) an integral appearance between the top frame 40 and the frontframe 12 such that these two components upon casual observation from oneor more or all sides or angles can appear upon casual observation to beone component.

As shown in FIG. 4A, in some embodiments the top frame 40 can besubstantially thinner than the front frame 12 of the eyeglass 10 in oneor more or all regions, as measured between the respective anterior andposterior surfaces of each of the top frame 40 and front frame 12. Forexample, in some embodiments, the front frame 12 can be at least abouttwice as thick as the top frame 40. In some implementations, the topframe 40 can be less than or equal to about 3 mm or less than or equalto about 2 mm in thickness. Similarly, in some embodiments, the topframe 40 can be lighter than the front frame 12 of the eyeglass 10. Forexample, the front frame 12 can be at least about twice as heavy as thetop frame 40. The lighter weight of the top frame 40 as compared to thefront frame 12 can result from the top frame 40 being thinner andtherefore having less mass, and/or being made from a lighter material,and/or lacking one or more lenses. As shown, the thickness of the topframe 40 and/or the thickness of the front frame 12 can be constant orsubstantially constant across the entire top frame 40 and/or front frame12. As shown, in some embodiments, no portion of the top frame 40extends into the front frame 12, and/or no portion of the front frame 12extends into the top frame 40, when the top frame 40 is attached to thefront frame 12. In some embodiments, thinner and/or lighter top frames40 can provide one or more advantages: (a) a lower likelihood ofunintended detachment of the top frame 40 from the front frame 12; (b)less weight on a user's face; (c) lower manufacturing cost; and/or (d)easier and more convenient storage and carrying of one or moreinterchangeable top frames 40. In some embodiments, the top frame 40 ishighly bendable, resilient, and/or flexible, enabling the top frame 40to tolerate normal daily movements, wear, dropping, or even normalstepping or crushing forces, without causing damage to the structuralintegrity of the top frame 40 and/or without materially or permanentlychanging the shape of the top frame 40.

Providing an eyewear with a thin top frame 40 that is also curved goesagainst the conventional approaches in this field. Thin eyewearstructures are more likely to break if stressed, twisted, bent, orstepped on, in the rough and tumble daily use of eyewear. A curvedeyewear structure is also more likely to break when stepped on than aflat eyewear structure because forcing a curved structure into a flatshape induces structural stresses, which can create an especiallyvulnerable region at the nose bridge (typically located at the peak ofthe curve). The conventional thinking did not lead those of skill in theart to use two design approaches that were both thought to createweaknesses in the structural integrity of eyewear. However, it has beendiscovered that a resilient or flexible, thin, and curved top frame 40can provide various advantages while not sacrificing strength ordurability, especially when the top frame 40 does not include lenses(which may otherwise favor frame rigidity to securely hold the lenses inplace and to resist optical distortions).

As illustrated in FIG. 5 , some embodiments can enable attachmentbetween the front frame 12 and top frame 40 only by magnetic attractionand without requiring any mechanical coupling. As shown, in someembodiments, no part of the top frame 40 extends in a posterior,backward, and/or rearward direction past the anterior surface of thefront frame 12 when the top frame 40 is attached to the front frame 12.All portions of the top frame 40 when attached to the front frame 12 canbe positioned in front of the posterior surface of the front frame 12.

The top frames 40 anterior or posterior surface can exhibit any desiredfinish surface or coat, such as either a glossy or matte surface. Thissurface is measurable via instruments well known in the industry tocategorize surface specular diffusion such as a specular excludedspectrophotometer. These measurements are correlated with contact anglemeasurements and the proper Dynes per centimeter squared for the desiredin-mass decoration technique can be ascertained by a simple one-stepspectral excluded measurement.

In some embodiments, for “glossy” parts the range for surface tensioncan be at least about 100 and/or less than or equal to about 1000 Dynesper centimeter squared. A secondary treatment process can be employed totemporarily change the molecular surface to a surface tension range thatwill bond with the desired in-mass decoration technique employed. Suchtreatments are well known in the industry and can include but are notlimited to, plasma, flame, primer, paint, ablation via laser orchemical, chemical dip, and annealing.

In some embodiments, for “matte” parts, the surface tension range can beat least about 20 and/or less than or equal to about 100 dynes percentimeter squared. A secondary process generally may not be needed.

In some embodiments, the top frames 40 can be a lens-less system in thatthe top frames 40 lack a recess to accept lenses and do not come withand are not intended to have a lens or lenses. The top frame 40 can be adecorative part that is meant for customization, or personalization, inthe sense of fashion and personal expression. Top frames are in-massdecorated via means well known in the industry and can be but are notlimited to direct Inkjet solvent, Inkjet UV, Water Slide or Cubicprocess, sublimation, paint, stamping, laser decoration, and/orlamination.

The white anterior surface can facilitate the in-mass decoration byproviding a white surface to lay on top of and exhibit the fullproperties of reflective color, while the clear posterior surface canallow the additional bleed produced by each individual in-mass processto pass along or “waterfall down” an edge from the anterior surface tothe posterior surface without noticeable results upon casual observance.In contrast, with an all-white or otherwise opaque part, the bleed wouldbe seen in a visible cascade on the edge of the part as it gradientsfrom the anterior to the posterior surface. Top frames can be massdecorated with third-party logo licensing and franchising, includingMLB, MBA, DC Comics, Marvel Comics, and Harry Potter, for example.

In some embodiments, each of the main system parts can exhibit amechanical radius of curvature, these curvatures are matchedmechanically to provide a “fit” between the anterior surface of the topand the posterior surface of the base that enables the magnetic bond toexhibit a significant, measurable resistance to shearing forces andallows for no visible space between the surfaces upon casualobservation. For example, by providing an anterior surface on the frontframe 12 and a posterior surface on the top frame 40 that generally orsubstantially correspond, match, fit within, nest, and/or conform toeach other, the respective coupling outer faces of the magnets on thefront frame 12 and the magnets on the top frame 40 can be positioned ina generally coplanar orientation with each other when attached,providing maximum or full contact between the outer faces of therespective coupling magnets to induce maximum or full magneticattractive forces. In contrast, when the respective curvatures of thefront frame 12 and the top frame 40 do not match, it may otherwise benecessary for a user to manually force down a flat or otherwisenon-conforming top frame 40 against a curved front frame 12, creatingtension in the material of the top frame 40 and inducing a restoringforce urging the top frame 40 back in the opposite direction. Thisarrangement may provide a poor fit and create a less secure connectionbetween the front frame 12 and the top frame 40 because the bent topframe 40 is exerting a force in opposition to the respective couplingmagnets. In some embodiments, as shown, no part of the top frame 40 isrequired to be bent, stretched, contorted, or twisted in order to attachand/or remove the top frame 40 to or from the front frame 12.

In some embodiments, the top frame 40 may be formed using a celluloseacetate top frame system that is pressed and cut. In some embodiments,the top frame 40 may be made from an injection molded part, which mayprovide more precision in the thickness and overall size due to theincreased precision of tolerancing of the injection molding process.Going from a +1 −1 mm tolerance (injection molding) to a +0.005 −0.005with the press and cut method allows for a significant thinning of theparts. In some embodiments, the thickness of an acetate top frame 40 wason average about 3.49 mm and the thickness of a TR90 top frame 40 wasabout 2.15 mm on average. The flexibility of TR90 allows the overallstrength and flexibility to increase. In some embodiments, with astiffness at 0.0032 EI less than acetate, a TR90 top frame 40 isgenerally more flexible and more impact resistant. In some embodiments,the Young's modulus of the TR90 top frame 40 can be less than theacetate top frames 40, having overall more elasticity on average atabout 3.25 EF less gigapascals.

In some embodiments, the top frame 40 is clear on the anterior surfaceand white on the posterior surface, allowing the in-mass decorationtechnique to “waterfall” off the edges without leaving visible bleedmarks. With an all-white part, the bleed from in-mass decoration may“waterfall” off the part and leave visible trails on the edge of thepart. In the TR90 top frame 40, the magnetic cavity can be part of themold or can be cut out so that the neodymium N52 magnet can be preciselypositioned.

Bending stiffness (EI) is the term used to describe the flexuralrigidity of a member or the capacity to resist bending. The units forbending stiffness are N·m2. Tensile modulus (EF) is calculated from theinitial slope of the load-deflection curve, which is the slope beforeany yielding or permanent deformation. A higher number is more rigid. Insome embodiments, EF for the material of which the top frame 40 is madeis at least about 1400 MPa, or at least about 1500 MPa, or at leastabout 1600 Mpa.

The magnets (e.g., Neodymium N52 magnets) can be embedded or otherwiseattached to or positioned in the respective posterior surface of the topframe 40 and the anterior surface of the front frame 12. The magnets canhave any shape or size to provide a suitable attachment force tomaintain the top frame 40 in place during normal activities but that isnot overly difficult to remove by a user when desired. In someembodiments, the magnets are very small, for example less than or equalto about 7 mm in diameter or cross-sectional width, and/or less than orequal to about 7 mm in diameter or cross-sectional width, and/or about 5mm in diameter or cross-sectional width. In some embodiments, themagnets can be very thin, such as less than or equal to about 2 mm inthickness, and/or less than or equal to about 1.5 mm in thickness,and/or about 1.2 mm in thickness.

In some embodiments, the magnets can be precision placed at about fromthe anterior surface with about a ±0.03 mm tolerance but may be placedat about but no more than about 0.1 mm with a tolerance of a ±0.03 mm.The magnet(s) in the top frame can be placed so that the posterior sideof the N52 magnet in the top frame is exposed and is generally even withthe final layer of the posterior surface. The front frame 12 and the topframes 40 magnetic poles can be always oriented in the same direction,meaning if the attracting poles are inward-facing on the top frame 40and outward-facing on the base frame 12 then this is consistent acrossall styles and all front frames 12 and all top frames 40. This providespredictability and compatibility when attaching a top frame 40 to a baseframe 12.

In some embodiments, a high-strength but conveniently removable magneticcoupling can be provided between the front frame 12 and the top frame 40to resist unintentional decoupling, loss of or damage to the top frame40, and/or appreciable gaps between the front frame 12 and the top frame40. In magnetics, the strength of a permanent magnet can be measuredusing the maximum energy product, which is typically measured in unitsof either kJ/m3 (kilojoules per cubic meter) or MGOe(mega-gauss-oersted). The maximum energy product represents the densityof magnetic energy in the material. In some embodiments, the respectivemagnets provided in the front frame 12 and/or top frame 40 can have amaximum energy product of at least about 40 MGOe and/or less than orequal to about MGOe (between about 320 kJ/m3 and about 480 kJ/m3), or atleast about 48 MGOe and/or less than or equal to about 52 MGOe (betweenabout 380 kJ/m3 and about 415 kJ/m3).

The pull force is a measure of the force required to decouple the topframe from the front frame 12 by pulling the top frame 40 forward, in ananterior direction away from the wearer's face. When comparing magnetsof a given shape, the pull force of the magnetic material is generallyproportional to the maximum energy product, sometimes referenced as theN-number. In some embodiments, the respective magnets located in or onthe front frame 12 and/or top frame 40 can each create a magnetic pullforce that is at least about 4. 0N and/or less than or equal to about4.5 N (between about 0.91 lbf and about 0.99 lbf). In some embodiments,when the respective magnets are attached to and/or embedded in the frontframe 12 and/or top frame 40, the sheer force required to slide eachrespective, individual magnetic in the top frame 40 away from thecorresponding individual magnet to which it is coupled in the frontframe 12 (by shifting these parts from each other laterally, vertically,and/or horizontally) can be at least about 0.5 N and/or less than orequal to about 1.0 N.

In some embodiments, during manufacturing, the top frame 40 can easilybe manipulated by an End Of Arm Tool that has an electromagnet embeddedin a non-ferritic surface such as a Delrin® or injected polycarbonate.This allows the embedded Neodymium N52 magnet in the top frames 40 tobond with the electromagnet of a tool which can be selectively turned onor off to allow for placement or pick up during assembly or packaging.

The top frame 40 and the base frame can both exhibit aneodymium-to-neodymium bond with measurable, repeatable, and tolerancedstrength. In some embodiments, this gives the ability to not require anymechanical attachment to additionally clip the top frames to the baseframes, relying only on magnet-to-magnet bonding that is seamless todetach and attach. Some detachable sunglass clips are known in theindustry to have a mechanical clip that assists in the bonding of thetwo materials. In some embodiments, sunglass clips are known to havemagnets while the base frame has a receptive ferritic plate. WithNeodymium magnets, the N-type can be specified with a prescribed holdingforce and controlled for quality and consistency.

In some embodiments, the complete system of a base frame andinterchangeable top frames works correctly and consistently by providinga range of ophthalmic options while still providing mechanical framecurvature fit. In accordance with standard meanings in the industry:

-   -   In some embodiments as the context dictates, base curvature can        be a measurement of the optical power of a lens reported in        diopters. In general, this is a reference to how much a lens        bends light.    -   In some embodiments as the context dictates, radius can be a        mechanical measure of a lens's physical curvature, comparing the        lens to a portion of a surface of a sphere or cylinder that        corresponds to the shape of the lens.    -   In some embodiments as the context dictates, frame curvature can        be the mechanical curvature of the frame created to accept        certain Base lens curvatures or ranges of curvatures. This is        often referred to incorrectly as the frame base curvature, i.e.-        three base frame, four base frame.

In some embodiment, the surfaces of the lenses or optical zones lie onthe surface of a solid geometric shape having a curve of substantiallyconstant radius along what is the horizontal meridian of the eyeglasses.Thus, for example, the front surface of one embodiment of the eyeglassframe conforms generally to a curve such as a base 4 curve. Other basecurves can be readily used if desired, such as to accommodate eitherprescription (corrective) lenses or noncorrective lenses.

With purpose-built internal calculation tools, the base frame range ofacceptance can be calculated using the minimum blank size, the cutposition on the blank, the position of optical center vs. pupillarydistance, and decentration. The edge thickness and the center thicknesstogether can be used to determine the lens base curvature that bestholds the base frame mechanical curvature true. The system can utilizethe base frame mechanical curvature to identify lenses in the wearer'sprescription. The range can be sorted by the lens base in diopters andpivots about the index of refraction of the material as the index willdetermine to what degree the material will bend light.

These values with the index can keep the end user's prescription rangeswithin the range of base curvatures to generally match the base framemechanical curvature range of acceptance at a base curvature that is atleast about 1 and/or less than or equal to about 4. This can allow thecurvature of the front frame 12 and the top frame 40 to generally matchor correspond, generally leaving no visible space between the anteriorand posterior surfaces on the top frames 40 and front frames 12 uponcasual observation, even across a range of difference prescriptions foran end-user.

The front frame 12 generally has a mechanical curvature that issubstantially constant. This is used to make sure the top frame 40 canfit with no visible space between the posterior surface of the top framesystems and the anterior surface of the base frames system upon casualobservation. In some embodiments, the mechanical curvature will accept avery small range of lens base curvatures as the lens base curvature cancause the frame's mechanical curvature to move out of alignment or forthe lens to protrude too much on the posterior surface or anteriorsurface. This can cause the top frame 40 to not fit correctly and willin turn not have a good mechanical bond from the Neodymium magnets ofthe top frame system to the Neodymium magnets of the front frame.

The range of bases and the appropriate prescriptions for each of theseranges can be calculated from a complex system of factors to account foredge thickness, center thickness, and minimum blank size. In someembodiments, using the material index to minimize thickness and toadhere to the system's strict tolerancing standards can help optimizethe lens size (e.g., minimum thickness and/or weight) across a range ofdifferent prescription values using that the same mechanical curvaturefor the front frame 12. In some embodiments, this system can useAspheric lenses to help minimize thickness and accommodate prescriptionranges with high minus and high plus ranges.

The prescriptions can be made into range charts that are used as a basefor a front-end user experience online and at retail locations whenordering prescriptions. For example, when a consumer enters online theirprescription frames that fit the prescription lens base curvature, theallowable base frame mechanical curvature can be displayed. Thisapproach can utilize the same mechanical curvature for a broad range ofprescriptions, ensuring that the systems of top frames 12 fit correctlywhile offering superior optics. The range charts provide a framework tostay inside of and allow both front-end users and customer service toselect the correct lenses for the matching prescription. In theindustry, it is well known to base lens offerings on price, premium, andsuper-premium tiers. In contrast, in some embodiments, the basecurvature of the system and the prescriptions flows from holdingconstant the mechanical curvature of the Base frame system.

In some embodiments, a 1-4 Diopter base can be used. By moving indexesof material, the system can compensate for variations in a user'sprescription. For instance, a −3.75 diopter lens will be too thick inpolycarbonate; however, the same lens in a 1.60 index material withresult in a lens that will hold the base frame system mechanicalcurvature.

The lens base curvature can be determined by using the sagittal depthformula to find radius and calculating the dioptric power with theradius and the index of refraction of the lens material. The lens “base”is then designated by D (base) and the lens “radius” is designated by R.

The lens radius of curvature is used in conjunction with the sagittaldepth formula to determine the lens base, the base system is reported indiopters. The lens radius is mechanical while the lens base curvature isoptical.

In some embodiments, automation and communication are folded into twoparts: the front end systems and the back end systems. In the front-endsystem, PO's are processed by appending and sorting by style into hotfolders that are picked by a nesting processor. The processor can be anoff-the-shelf processor or a custom processor. Many types and brands ofprocessors are well known in the industry. The front-end system can usea node to parse the incoming CSV files appending the file names of allthe files with designated quantity to print given from the CSV file.

Next, the front-end system can automatically sort the files by baseframe style into hot or priority folders that will then get picked andprocessed by the nesting software. In some embodiments, final files aresaved in PDF 4XA format and sent to a printer. In some embodiments,files could also be saved in a PDF format, or even an EPS format, or anyother format as desired. The system can place any file onto a nest oflike styles. In some embodiments, this yields 41 (average) differentprints or all the same print per nested jig. The front-end system canprovide each individual file with a QR code added to the left eyewell.This QR code can contain the relevant information about the style anddesign, SKU numbers, and UPC.

In some embodiments, once a full nest is made a jig is loaded in theprinter and printed. The back-end system is engaged. The back-end systemis a system of scanning carts that are battery-powered with QR codescanners running Raspberry Pi's that will then scan the QR codes. Acustom script on the Raspberry Pi looks for an exact name match based onthe UPC in a directory of saved PDFs. Once that match is made the scripttakes the file and sends it to a Linux CUPS printing system and printsit on a sticky label. The label is placed on a polybag and the productis placed inside that bag ensuring that the physical product is neverseparated from UPC and SKU after printing.

Jigs

In some embodiments, the print platform system is comprised of a layeredsystem alternating between ferritic and non-ferritic “filler” layersproviding both rigidity and light weighting. Using these alternatinglayers, a lightweight system (e.g., less than about 1 pound) can becreated that has a posterior and anterior terrific base material makingit magnetic receptive. A special temporary low adhesion pre-maskinglayer is applied by rolled force or by hand. This gives a surface to UVprint the optical guides that aid in manual or robotic placement. The UVprint can be used in the same manner that is widely known in theindustry for UV curable or 3D printing, offer referred to as rapidprototyping. This gives a raised edge that will assist in mechanicallylocking the parts into place when placed by hand or with a robot.Further assisting the placement bond of the top frames 40 once placedare the system's N52 neodymium magnets that are polled and tolerance.The magnetic top frames bond to the steel with a magnetic-to-magneticreceptive bond (ferritic) keeping precise positioning during theprinting process. This gives us precise printing and logo placement,with a repeating tolerance of between about −zero and about 0.02 mm.

The following is claimed:
 1. A method of enabling a user to removablyattach a top frame to a corresponding base eyewear, the methodcomprising: providing a top frame comprising: a left opening without alens and a right opening without a lens; a bridge positioned between theleft and right openings; and a curved posterior surface; at least twomagnets; and enabling the user to align the top frame with the baseeyewear such that the magnets of the top frame induce an attractiveforce between the posterior surface of the top frame and a curvedanterior surface of the base eyewear; wherein the top frame is made of adifferent material than the base eyewear, the top frame comprising oneor more of a metal or a composite material; wherein the posteriorsurface of the top frame comprises a pre-attached shape that correspondsto the anterior surface of the base eyewear such that, when the topframe is attached to the base eyewear, the posterior surface of the topframe closely fits with the anterior surface of the base eyewear,without requiring the top frame to be contorted to attach the top frameto the base eyewear; and wherein, when the top frame is attached to thebase eyewear, the top frame has no part that extends in a posteriordirection past the anterior surface of the base eyewear.
 2. The methodof claim 1, wherein the top frame is made of a metal comprisingaluminum.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the top frame is made of ametal comprising steel.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the top frameis made of a metal comprising iron.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinthe top frame is made of a metal comprising titanium.
 6. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the top frame is made of a composite materialcomprising carbon fiber.
 7. The method of claim 1, further comprisingthe step of providing a plurality of different top frames.
 8. The methodof claim 7, wherein a design on an anterior surface on each of theplurality of different top frames is different than a design on theanterior surface of the base eyewear.
 9. The method of claim 7, whereineach of the plurality of different top frames has an anterior surfacewith a design that is different in appearance from designs on eachanterior surfaces of each of the other of the plurality of top frames.10. A method of enabling a user to removably attach a top frame to acorresponding base eyewear, the method comprising: providing a top framecomprising: a left opening without a lens and a right opening without alens; a bridge positioned between the left and right openings; and acurved posterior surface; at least two magnets; and enabling the user toalign the top frame with the base eyewear such that the magnets of thetop frame induce an attractive force between the posterior surface ofthe top frame and a curved anterior surface of the base eyewear; whereinthe top frame is made of a different material than the base eyewear, thetop frame comprising one or more of a thermoplastic amorphous polyamide,acetate, xylonite, or nylon; wherein the posterior surface of the topframe comprises a pre-attached shape that corresponds to the anteriorsurface of the base eyewear such that, when the top frame is attached tothe base eyewear, the posterior surface of the top frame closely fitswith the anterior surface of the base eyewear, without requiring the topframe to be contorted to attach the top frame to the base eyewear; andwherein, when the top frame is attached to the base eyewear, the topframe has no part that extends in a posterior direction past theanterior surface of the base eyewear.
 11. The method of claim 10,wherein the top frame is made of cellulose acetate.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the top frame is made of cellulose acetate propionate.13. The method of claim 10, wherein the top frame is made of a nylonblend.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein an anterior surface of thetop frame comprises an aesthetic appearance that is different from anaesthetic appearance of the anterior surface of the base eyewear. 15.The method of claim 10, wherein the material of the top frame isresilient.
 16. The method of claim 10, wherein a thickness of the topframe is less than a thickness of the front portion of the base eyewear.17. A method of enabling a user to removably attach a top frame to acorresponding base eyewear, the method comprising: providing a top framecomprising: a left opening and a right opening; a bridge positionedbetween the left and right openings; a front layer and a rear layer, thefront layer being opaque and the rear layer being transparent; andenabling the user to align the top frame with the base eyewear such thatthe top frame attaches to the base eyewear; wherein the posteriorsurface of the top frame comprises a pre-attached shape that correspondsto the anterior surface of the base eyewear such that, when the topframe is attached to the base eyewear, the posterior surface of the topframe closely fits with the anterior surface of the base eyewear,without requiring the top frame to be contorted to attach the top frameto the base eyewear.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the front layerof the top frame is thinner than the rear layer of the top frame. 19.The method of claim 18, wherein the front layer of the top frame is lessthan or equal to about 1 mm in thickness.
 20. The method of claim 17,wherein the top frame is made in a two-shot mold.
 21. The method ofclaim 17, wherein the front layer has a glossy surface.
 22. The methodof claim 17, wherein the front layer has a matte surface.
 23. The methodof claim 17, wherein a design on an anterior surface on the top framesis different than a design on the anterior surface of the base eyewear.